Question:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My most productive winter fly is a Purple Egg Sucking Leech (basically a purple wooley bugger with two turns of chartreuse, flame orange, or bright pink chenille at the head) on a size 4 or 6 hook. The second most productive is one I  call a Clown fly – basically a take-off of a Clown  colored Corkie – a fat body that is one half chartreuse chenille and half  flame orange chenille, with an oversized (2x normal +)white webby saddle hackle on a size 4 -8  standard steelhead bait hook (Gamakatsu or similar). I tie the PESL either weighted or unweighted – use the unweighted in large pools where I can effectively use a fast sink tip and get a good swing (short leader ~ 3′).  On other water I use a floating line, 9-12′ leader, & heavily weighted  PESL with the clown fly dropped off the bend about 18-24". When the water is low and clear and the fish tend to be skittish, a small (12-16) nymph (GRHE, PT, Copper John, etc.) on a 24" dropper from the weighted fly can be very effective. When you really need to get down, a very effective fly here (but one I really hate to use – pure chuck & duck) is the lead-eyed leech – a maribou leech in any of the standard colors with large lead (or tungsten) dumbell eyes.

That’s interesting to find your fly list both short and conventional – sometimes I think I try too hard.  My most productive fly this past season and a half was a purple and black marabou spey with a large, purple Krystal Flash wing and a large neon red head – very close to your PESL.  Last year I did OK dead drifting a black ESL under an indicator, but didn’t get a tap when I swung it. When I need to get really down, I try to avoid the lead eyes, preferring heavy duty sinking heads. I hate to fish deep for steelhead; much prefering to catch them on or near the top. So I pay alot of attention to water temperature.  I have found that if the water temp is above 41deg.F, I can be reasonably successful fishing with a floating line, standard unweighted steelhead patterns ( Skunk, GBS, Purple Peril, etc.) and using either wet fly swing or greased line presentations.  In fact, if the water temp is over 44deg. F, I can have reasonable success fishing riffling patterns ( Bomber, Moose Turd, Waller Walker, etc.) on the surface.  There is no denying though, that much below 45deg F water, you will usually be more successful  going deep rather than fishing on or near the surface for steelhead.  I’ve reached a point though that I’d rather catch fewer fish using methods I really enjoy than employ methods that I find to be not nearly as much fun. Bob Weinberger

Ya, that’s my curse too, persisting with what I like rather than what is needed to catch fish.  Frankly, I think of late I’ve been running too deep, snagging bottom constantly, then switching off to a lighter rig and zooming it over their heads.  This back ‘n forth comes from constantly trying new water of uncertain depth rather than plugging away at the same old, same old and getting to know the depths and features very well.  It certainly reduces my catch rate but perversely, I find it more interesting. Peter Visit The Streamer Page at http://www.mountaincable.net/~pcharles/streamers/index.html

Response:

Out this morning, one tap only.  It felt like the fish was nipping at the tail of the fly (rather long) and later when I got a call from a local steelheader, he mentioned that he moves to shorter flies as the fish don’t hit as aggressively when the temps drop. Since we have a few PNW steelheaders here, I’m wondering what they like to use as a winter fly.  The local float rodders tend to use a roe sack that makes the eggs look milky white and chartreuse so I’ve just finished a marabou spey fly that is white over chartreuse – should have the desired appearance.  The local shop owner likes purple, purple and black, or red and black as well. Also curious if you’ve noticed winter steelhead being willing to raise up a foot or so to snare a fly?   I spent too much time on the river bottom beautification program this morning as my tip was too heavy for the slower water, yet when I’m not hitting bottom, I’m second guessing myself about the fly being where the fish are.  The hit btw, was in the middle of a fast, heavy riffle and judging by the tap, tap, tap, the fish was chasing and nipping. Peter Visit The Streamer Page at http://www.mountaincable.net/~pcharles/streamers/index.html

Response:

Snip Since we have a few PNW steelheaders here, I’m wondering what they like to use as a winter fly.

Snip My most productive winter fly is a Purple Egg Sucking Leech (basically a purple wooley bugger with two turns of chartreuse, flame orange, or bright pink chenille at the head) on a size 4 or 6 hook. The second most productive is one I  call a Clown fly – basically a take-off of a Clown  colored Corkie – a fat body that is one half chartreuse chenille and half  flame orange chenille, with an oversized (2x normal +)white webby saddle hackle on a size 4 -8  standard steelhead bait hook (Gamakatsu or similar). I tie the PESL either weighted or unweighted – use the unweighted in large pools where I can effectively use a fast sink tip and get a good swing (short leader ~ 3′).  On other water I use a floating line, 9-12′ leader, & heavily weighted  PESL with the clown fly dropped off the bend about 18-24". When the water is low and clear and the fish tend to be skittish, a small (12-16) nymph (GRHE, PT, Copper John, etc.) on a 24" dropper from the weighted fly can be very effective. When you really need to get down, a very effective fly here (but one I really hate to use – pure chuck & duck) is the lead-eyed leech – a maribou leech in any of the standard colors with large lead (or tungsten) dumbell eyes. Snip Also curious if you’ve noticed winter steelhead being willing to raise up a foot or so to snare a fly?

Snip I hate to fish deep for steelhead; much prefering to catch them on or near the top. So I pay alot of attention to water temperature.  I have found that if the water temp is above 41deg.F, I can be reasonably successful fishing with a floating line, standard unweighted steelhead patterns ( Skunk, GBS, Purple Peril, etc.) and using either wet fly swing or greased line presentations.  In fact, if the water temp is over 44deg. F, I can have reasonable success fishing riffling patterns ( Bomber, Moose Turd, Waller Walker, etc.) on the surface.  There is no denying though, that much below 45deg F water, you will usually be more successful  going deep rather than fishing on or near the surface for steelhead.  I’ve reached a point though that I’d rather catch fewer fish using methods I really enjoy than employ methods that I find to be not nearly as much fun. Bob Weinberger – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Peter

Response:

Question:

Done that for bass.  Clear lake in norther California has vast fields of tulies and that is about the only way to fish them. We would use the same tackle we used for  Poke Poling – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am looking for the name of a form of warm water fly fishing that I saw described in some magazine several years ago.   A short line was tied directly to the tip of a long cane pole which was armed with a popping bug which was then dabbled about on the water around lily pads and brush piles.   I believe that this was used in places where brush prevented traditional fly casting. Can anybody help? Thanks in advance. Buff This technique is known as "Doodel Socking",  or simply "Doodeling". For more info have a look at http://www.flyanglersonline.com/features/oldflies/part11.html TL MC

Response:

abcpicts wrote I am looking for the name of a form of warm water fly fishing that I saw described in some magazine several years ago.  …..

Funny you should mention this.  Our club speaker this month was an interesting ol’ character named Harry Smith who uses a very similar technique to illicit frenzied response from bass. His fly is a hookless bird pattern about the size of a baby bird.  He simply ties the birdfly to a short (3-4") spring loaded leader that is tied directly to the rod tip….No reel!.  Harry gets into the weeds and begins dabbling the little birdie here and there until he gets the attention of one or more bass and then the fun begins. The video footage he presented is absolutely amazing!  The fish grab the fly, take it down, eventually let it go….then come back for more.  Harry claims several hundred strikes in an hour.  It’s amazing that the fish keep after the pattern in spite of their lack of success in acquiring any protein from the effort. —                                                       -dnc-

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I am looking for the name of a form of warm water fly fishing that I saw described in some magazine several years ago.   A short line was tied directly to the tip of a long cane pole which was armed with a popping bug which was then dabbled about on the water around lily pads and brush piles.   I believe that this was used in places where brush prevented traditional fly casting. Can anybody help? Thanks in advance. Buff

Response:

There is a version of fly fishing practised in the UK called "dapping". It involves the use of a long rod, a light line and a fine leader. The rod is fished down wind from a boat and the wind bounces the fly from wave to wave. This sounds  like the word you need. Although, your description does not sound like fly fishing in the traditional sense.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am looking for the name of a form of warm water fly fishing that I saw described in some magazine several years ago.   A short line was tied directly to the tip of a long cane pole which was armed with a popping bug which was then dabbled about on the water around lily pads and brush piles.   I believe that this was used in places where brush prevented traditional fly casting. Can anybody help? Thanks in advance. Buff

Response:

bug-dunkin — Don Thompson Another Thompson Scion

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am looking for the name of a form of warm water fly fishing that I saw described in some magazine several years ago.   A short line was tied directly to the tip of a long cane pole which was armed with a popping bug which was then dabbled about on the water around lily pads and brush piles.   I believe that this was used in places where brush prevented traditional fly casting. Can anybody help? Thanks in advance. Buff

Response:

I am looking for the name of a form of warm water fly fishing that I saw described in some magazine several years ago.   A short line was tied directly to the tip of a long cane pole which was armed with a popping bug which was then dabbled about on the water around lily pads and brush piles.   I believe that this was used in places where brush prevented traditional fly casting. Can anybody help? Thanks in advance. Buff

This technique is known as "Doodel Socking",  or simply "Doodeling". For more info have a look at http://www.flyanglersonline.com/features/oldflies/part11.html TL MC

Response:

There is a version of fly fishing practised in the UK called "dapping". It involves the use of a long rod, a light line and a fine leader.

My understanding is that dapping isn’t usually done with a fine tippet. After all, the tippet isn’t supposed to get into the water. — visit my web site: http://home.earthlink.net/~royalwulff/

Response:

<SNIP My understanding is that dapping isn’t usually done with a fine tippet. After all, the tippet isn’t supposed to get into the water.

Your understanding is correct. Using too fine a leader is a serious mistake when dapping. I have never used anything less than eight pound mono. Dapping tends to attract large fish. http://www.fishandfly.co.uk/jbedit0699.html http://www.fishandfly.co.uk/jbedit0900.html http://www.amazingoutdoors.com/0,2010,S74-P166-A7436-TA,00.html http://www.masterflyfishing.com/tactics/nymphs/page4.htm http://www.actravel.co.uk/shannon.html http://www.irishfieldsports.com/newpage64.htm You might find these interesting as well; http://www.flymail.com/graphcat/dapping.html TL MC

Response:

Doodling is indeed the word. Large crank baits are used for bass and flies for bream and warmouth. Fish are not lifted from the water but retrieved hand over hand. a cane pole works well. — John Popp in Sanford Fl.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am looking for the name of a form of warm water fly fishing that I saw described in some magazine several years ago.   A short line was tied directly to the tip of a long cane pole which was armed with a popping bug which was then dabbled about on the water around lily pads and brush piles.   I believe that this was used in places where brush prevented traditional fly casting. Can anybody help? Thanks in advance. Buff This technique is known as "Doodel Socking",  or simply "Doodeling". For more info have a look at http://www.flyanglersonline.com/features/oldflies/part11.html TL MC

Response:

After checking one of my old American books, I found another name for the technique you describe.  It is called "Jiggerpoling".  Much the same as "Doodling" but a plug, bacon rind, frog, etc or similar is used.  A search on "jiggerpoling" turned up these; http://www.gcomag.com/052k/jiggerpole.htm http://www.edersfishing.com/fresh/publication/2000/june/Jiggerploes/d…. cfm Very interesting. TL MC

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Question:

I am most definitely interested; but be advised it can approach "combat fishing" during the height of the run, especially at the well-known holes. E-mail me your address & I’ll snail mail you a couple simple shad flies that produce well.   You can tie these things in your sleep.   Late April, early May is the time to go.   I’d definitely recommend a sink tip line over full sink or split shot.   4 wt to 6 wt. is fine.   It’d be a great time to hook up w/ you again.   The guys at the Edge are usually up on the latest status of the run when the time comes. Joe F.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Any one up for a mini-clave (excuse for a single day out) for the shad run?  I’ve never tackled these slimey buggers and would like some local assistance in my first attempt.  Should start tying now as I don’t think these things will be eating the same munchies that we’re planning for the Penn clave. I have no idea on where to go or what tackle to bring.  I’ll host if some one can give me some particulars and guide.           Frank Reid

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Any one up for a mini-clave (excuse for a single day out) for the shad run?  I’ve never tackled these slimey buggers and would like some local           Frank Reid

Frank, Frank, Frank…..I hate to sound like a broken record, especially since my fish of preference is trout, but I can spot a bus load of fishermen on the Rappahannock, at the right spot, on the right day (actually night), and let you catch Hickory and American shad until you tire and beg for mercy.  Fly of choice will be #8 Clouser in pink/white. Plan on being there at the end of April and we can fill up on chili and beer before we slide over the couple hundred yards to the river. The occasional big striper keeps the small rod (6 wt.) users on their toes. — Wayne To fish is human….To release Divine!

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Which reminds me, if anyone is on their way from the South on the way to the Penn. Clave and wants to stop off in Fredericksburg on the way, the shad run is slowing down, 2nd striper run getting underway, smallmouth fishing heating up BIG TIME, and you will have to drive less than 5 miles off I-95. Frank has some great waters for shad in Maryland and a late April shad Clave for the day would be a hoot. — Wayne (Penn. Clave still up in the air for me) To fish is human….To release Divine!

Response:

Frank, Frank, Frank…..I hate to sound like a broken record, especially since my fish of preference is trout, but I can spot a bus load of fishermen on the Rappahannock, at the right spot, on the right day (actually night), and let you catch Hickory and American shad until you tire and beg for mercy.

Wayne, Wayne, Wayne…   As great as the Rapp may be, the Susquehanna and Deer Creek are but 20 minutes from my door (and probably Lou T. as well), and less than an hour for Frank.   Plus, it doesn’t require another license purchase.   I’ll definitely be down for the smallies in August, but I’ll most likely support my local shad.  :-) Joe F. Then again, Easter weekend falls near the beginning of the run, and a family camping trip might be arranged.  "Hey hon, how about we try someplace to the south, say along the Rappahannock in Virginia?   What, the shad run is on? I had no idea!"  :-)   Give me a town name for reference.

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Then again, Easter weekend falls near the beginning of the run, and a family camping trip might be arranged.  "Hey hon, how about we try someplace to the south, say along the Rappahannock in Virginia?   What, the shad run is on? I had no idea!"  :-)   Give me a town name for reference.

I would try to slip up there and fish for Md. shad if you do a shad- calve.  They are smaller and not as pretty as Va. shad but it would be fun anyway! The Va. shad festival begins about Easter weekend this year with the nearest town being Fredericksburg.  Campgrounds nearby both ways, upriver at the begining of smallmouth season or close to I-95.  When the (*&%&^#$% mail server comes back up at my home e-mail account I’ll tell you EXACTLY which town and which hole to fish in. — Wayne To fish is human….To release Divine!

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Any one up for a mini-clave (excuse for a single day out) for the shad run?

Okay, now you have me thinking about it, so I have to ask.   If we do a one-day thing, a week day would be better crowd-wise.   Among those who migh make it, would a Friday be good?   I’ll start some prelim looks into campgrounds (Susquehanna SP is close, but alcohol is probably a no-no) and/or other arrangements.   Might even talk SWMBO into hosting you reprobates for an afternoon cookout or something. Joe F.

Response:

The top fly for shad in the MD area is a red over yellow streamer tied with marabou, attributed by some to Joe Bruce.  Use a long shank streamer and you can grab the hook by the eye; give it a quick turn; and release the fish without lifting it from the water or touching it.  Other two color marabou streamers are also used but IMHO, if they’re not biting on the red and yellow, they’re not likely to hit on anything.  Six weight rods are the most popular.  I use up to 4s when fishing Yellowstone NP, but always use a 6 for shad.  Two other important things are: 1. use enough weight to get the fly down and 2. The water temp has to be above (?).  I forget the temp so one of you others can fill in the blank.  I use a length of lead core line as weight. Lou

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Any one up for a mini-clave (excuse for a single day out) for the shad run?  I’ve never tackled these slimey buggers and would like some local assistance in my first attempt.  Should start tying now as I don’t think these things will be eating the same munchies that we’re planning for the Penn clave. I have no idea on where to go or what tackle to bring.  I’ll host if some one can give me some particulars and guide.           Frank Reid

Response:

If you’re looking to set a date, The best days for shad fishing that I’ve had in previous years locally (Deer Creek and an unmentioned stream) have been around 1 May.  However some years the runs vary a bit.  If the shad aren’t hitting, it’s also the time for stocked trout in nearby streams. Lou

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Any one up for a mini-clave (excuse for a single day out) for the shad run?  I’ve never tackled these slimey buggers and would like some local assistance in my first attempt.  Should start tying now as I don’t think these things will be eating the same munchies that we’re planning for the Penn clave. I have no idea on where to go or what tackle to bring.  I’ll host if some one can give me some particulars and guide.           Frank Reid

Response:

If you’re looking to set a date, The best days for shad fishing that I’ve had in previous years locally (Deer Creek and an unmentioned stream) have been around 1 May.  However some years the runs vary a bit.  If the shad aren’t hitting, it’s also the time for stocked trout in nearby streams. Lou

I vote May 4, Frank R. Clavemeister, Joe Beermeister, Lou Flymeister. — Wayne ( attendee-in-training) To Fish is Human….To Release Divine!

Response:

The top fly for shad in the MD area is a red over yellow streamer tied with marabou, attributed by some to Joe Bruce.

Absolutely.   And a gold or silver tinsel body.   (I got mine from Joe’s shop, but didn’t know he invented them.  FWIW, Joe B. adds a single short strand of red thread as a tail, but it probably makes no difference.) I use a length of lead core line as weight

Give me a few details on that.   I always use the sink tip, and I have ST lines for both my 6 wt. and son’s 4 wt., but if I take the whole fam damily this year, I dont want to be buying a couple more ST lines for a one-time excursion. Joe F. p.s.   You ever going to let me know about those meetings? <g

Response:

I vote May 4, Frank R. Clavemeister, Joe Beermeister, Lou Flymeister.

May 4 is coincidentally the first weekend the nearby SP is open for camping. Still haven’t checked on the alcohol regs there.   There’s plenty of hotels/motels nearby also, should the need arise.   We’ll be very close to Edgewood Arsenal (military base), & there’s a healthy hospitality biz surrounding that.   No, not *that* kind of hospitality (though I wouldn’t be surprised.) Joe F.

Response:

May 4 is coincidentally the first weekend the nearby SP is open for camping. Still haven’t checked on the alcohol regs there.

The good news is – alcohol is allowed in the park.   Drinking at campsites, picnic tables, etc. is allowed.   Not on trails or parking lots, and loud and obnoxious behavior will result in expulsion (could be a problem there). Based on that, it’s proximity to the river, and the success of the RRR arrangement, I’ll recommend Susquehanna SP as Clave Central for the day. Further, I’ll volunteer for the Clavemeister duties (hell, I might even do hats).   Also, for those who do not have or do not wish to bring camping gear, there are several small cabins (keyword: small) that will get a comfortable roof over your head for a night or two. I will do this:   I’ll reserve a "cabin" and several adjacent sites (as insulation).   If you *think* you might attend and want to arrive Thursday night or stay over Friday, let me know asap.   For anyone coming from a distance, I’d recommend Thursday night; pre-dawn is the best time on the river. As the date approaches, I’ll offer more details e.g. driving directions, lodging, etc. as needed. Joe F.

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Based on that, it’s proximity to the river, and the success of the RRR arrangement, I’ll recommend Susquehanna SP as Clave Central for the day. Further, I’ll volunteer for the Clavemeister duties (hell, I might even do hats).   Also, for those who do not have or do not wish to bring camping gear, there are several small cabins (keyword: small) that will get a comfortable roof over your head for a night or two.

For details on the park & a pic of the cabins: http://www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/central/susquehanna.html Joe F.

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For details on the park & a pic of the cabins: http://www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/central/susquehanna.html Joe F.

Things are looking real promising for me to attend.  I’ll possibly come up after the beltway mania dies out. — Wayne To Fish is Human….To Release Divine!

Response:

Harford County Fly Anglers mets first Tuesday of the month at the Churchville Center.  I’ll post a reminder for the Feb meeting. Lou

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – The top fly for shad in the MD area is a red over yellow streamer tied with marabou, attributed by some to Joe Bruce. Absolutely.   And a gold or silver tinsel body.   (I got mine from Joe’s shop, but didn’t know he invented them.  FWIW, Joe B. adds a single short strand of red thread as a tail, but it probably makes no difference.) I use a length of lead core line as weight Give me a few details on that.   I always use the sink tip, and I have ST lines for both my 6 wt. and son’s 4 wt., but if I take the whole fam damily this year, I dont want to be buying a couple more ST lines for a one-time excursion. Joe F. p.s.   You ever going to let me know about those meetings? <g

Response:

Ok.  Joe, seems like you got things handled (your neck of the woods shall we say) and that weekend sounds great.  If some one would like to get our hats from the Susquehanna Hat Company, then we’ll be set. I can get a pot of chili for lunch and rig a sign.      Frank – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – May 4 is coincidentally the first weekend the nearby SP is open for camping. Still haven’t checked on the alcohol regs there. The good news is – alcohol is allowed in the park.   Drinking at campsites, picnic tables, etc. is allowed.   Not on trails or parking lots, and loud and obnoxious behavior will result in expulsion (could be a problem there). Based on that, it’s proximity to the river, and the success of the RRR arrangement, I’ll recommend Susquehanna SP as Clave Central for the day. Further, I’ll volunteer for the Clavemeister duties (hell, I might even do hats).   Also, for those who do not have or do not wish to bring camping gear, there are several small cabins (keyword: small) that will get a comfortable roof over your head for a night or two. I will do this:   I’ll reserve a "cabin" and several adjacent sites (as insulation).   If you *think* you might attend and want to arrive Thursday night or stay over Friday, let me know asap.   For anyone coming from a distance, I’d recommend Thursday night; pre-dawn is the best time on the river. As the date approaches, I’ll offer more details e.g. driving directions, lodging, etc. as needed. Joe F.

Response:

Any one up for a mini-clave (excuse for a single day out) for the shad run?  I’ve never tackled these slimey buggers and would like some local assistance in my first attempt.  Should start tying now as I don’t think these things will be eating the same munchies that we’re planning for the Penn clave. I have no idea on where to go or what tackle to bring.  I’ll host if some one can give me some particulars and guide.           Frank Reid

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Question:

I GOT IT!  The worst insult on ROFF: "Gink for brains"

I like that mucho.

Response:

Certainly explains a lot. Floatant instead of brains. No wonder some get light headed. TL MC — "If you have tried everything you know, and nothing works, then perhaps it is time to accept that you don

Question:

Hello Ihave the starter Orvis kit that I bought about 9 years ago for sale. It is a 4pc. 6wt. grafite rod with a orvis reel with floating line and a extra spool with sink tip line on it. also a aluminum tub for the rod . reply if interested 125.00 Bye Randy W. Oh ya forgot it’s the green mountain series

Response:

That’s EZ ! www.ezflyfish.com ! — TimW, Halfordian Golfer "A Cash Flow Runs Through It…" "Guilt replaced the creel…"

Response:

Oh Lord – now he’s on commission. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – That’s EZ ! www.ezflyfish.com ! — TimW, Halfordian Golfer "A Cash Flow Runs Through It…" "Guilt replaced the creel…"

Response:

I’m new to fly fishing, but got hooked (no pun intended) last summer. I couldn’t get any bites on bait so pulled out my mismatched fly rod (I bought it years ago at a Kmart closeout sale.) and instantly started getting bites. Apparently the little red misquito and Dave’s Hopper were the right choices. I caught a 4lb Rainbow and hooked several more but couldn’t land them. This was on the San Juan River near Pagosa Springs, Colorado.  Anyway, the point is I want to invest a little (maybe $75?) in a decent fly rod. I almost always stream fish for trout and usually not but about 8-11 inches.  What should I get and where do I get it?  I’d like a matched kit because I don’t know much about fly-fishing. Thanks for the help.

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I bought my wife an outfit from Cabellas…..for my money they have the best combo kits on the market in all price ranges..john

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Anyway, the point is I want to invest a little (maybe $75?) in a decent fly rod. I almost always stream fish for trout and usually not but about 8-11 inches.  What should I get and where do I get it?  I’d like a matched kit because I don’t know much about fly-fishing.

The advice to get Cabela’s catalog to buy an inexpensive outfit is good. They have a wider selection than anybody in the lower price points. From what you say, look for an outfit that is 4 or 5 wt., and 8′6"  to 9′ long.  For a "balanced outfit", you’ll need a reel and fly line to match. If you’re used to K-Mart prices on spinning tackle, you’re in for a bit of sticker-shock.  Is the $75 for a rod only, or a rod/reel/line combination? If the latter you’re really pushing the bottom limits of the market, and are likely to replace it fairly soon if you get serious about the sport.  You may wish to hold on to your existing K-Mart special, and save up about $200 for an outfit that will give you a real performance improvement over what you’ve got now. Michael

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m new to fly fishing, but got hooked (no pun intended) last summer. I couldn’t get any bites on bait so pulled out my mismatched fly rod (I bought it years ago at a Kmart closeout sale.) and instantly started getting bites. Apparently the little red misquito and Dave’s Hopper were the right choices. I caught a 4lb Rainbow and hooked several more but couldn’t land them. This was on the San Juan River near Pagosa Springs, Colorado.  Anyway, the point is I want to invest a little (maybe $75?) in a decent fly rod. I almost always stream fish for trout and usually not but about 8-11 inches.  What should I get and where do I get it?  I’d like a matched kit because I don’t know much about fly-fishing. Thanks for the help.

  No doubt you’ve already read the advice on Cabelas, They are right. Give a good look at the 3 forks 3wt. 7.5′ 3piece rod combo. It casts easily to 30′ and beyond if you power it. It’ll be really fun on the size you specified yet has enough backbone for those 4+ pounders if finessed (I’ve done it) but it is more closely related to work than relaxation at that size.Comes complete but I would add a loop (orvis makes the best), the reel is on the large size for the rod but light and usable. It comes kit form so you can learn to attach the leader to line and reel(if you goof just cut it and try again), the line is not of the greatest quality but it’ll get you on the water AND the price is right.                                                       John Popp                                                    in Sanford Fl.

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<< I’m new to fly fishing, but got hooked (no pun intended) last summer. I couldn’t get any bites on bait so pulled out my mismatched fly rod (I bought it years ago at a Kmart closeout sale.) and instantly started getting bites. Apparently the little red misquito and Dave’s Hopper were the right choices. I caught a 4lb Rainbow and hooked several more but couldn’t land them. This was on the San Juan River near Pagosa Springs, Colorado.  Anyway, the point is I want to invest a little (maybe $75?) in a decent fly rod. I almost always stream fish for trout and usually not but about 8-11 inches.  What should I get and where do I get it?  I’d like a matched kit because I don’t know much about fly-fishing.

My advice would be to invest a little more money, dump the ideas about buying a kit,  and get a nice Pro Graphite St Croix rod and put a few extra bucks into the line. This is the setup I started flyfishing with 6 years ago now. I wanted to buy a cheap kit, and see if "I liked it", but a wise person told me to put in a little more money. You’ve already tried flyfishing with the cheap stuff. You will very probably develop into a fanatic. I own many flyrods now, but that old St. Croix 5 wt is still a rod I love and use frequently. Tor Larsen

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m new to fly fishing, but got hooked (no pun intended) last summer. I couldn’t get any bites on bait so pulled out my mismatched fly rod (I bought it years ago at a Kmart closeout sale.) and instantly started getting bites. Apparently the little red misquito and Dave’s Hopper were the right choices. I caught a 4lb Rainbow and hooked several more but couldn’t land them. This was on the San Juan River near Pagosa Springs, Colorado.  Anyway, the point is I want to invest a little (maybe $75?) in a decent fly rod. I almost always stream fish for trout and usually not but about 8-11 inches.  What should I get and where do I get it?  I’d like a matched kit because I don’t know much about fly-fishing. Thanks for the help.

Hi All, Bill Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop www.kiene.com

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Question:

It all depends on your situation. I would recommend neoprenes. I just feel like they are more durable and overall more functional. I have a pair of Orvis Cleawater Stockingfoots. I like them because they convert to hippers when I’m fishing shallow streams and they keep me pretty warm in the winter with an extra pair of socks and some long underwear. I also have a pair or Simms GoreTex which I use on those hot Georgia summer days (90+). But even on the hot days I can get by with the neoprenes (if I don’t have to hike in very far to the river). If you do a lot of hiking around think about stockingfoot models. To me bootfoots are fine in the water but aren’t great for hiking to. Hope this helps. Kevin – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve been fly-fishing for 2 months now.  I’m blessed by living in the Sierra with quick and easy access to many streams and rivers and lakes (eg Stanislaus, Mokelumne). I’ve been clomping around in my felt-soled boots and realize that waders are on the horizon. I’ve seen loose-fitting waders and tight ones (neoprene?).  The pros in the magazines seem to wear the loose ones. I’m open to suggestions. Regards, Dick Weinkle PS:  Do you lose more flies in the trees (like I do) than in the water? — I am who I’ve learned to be.  I am who I am.  I am Nothing.

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I’ve been fly-fishing for 2 months now.  I’m blessed by living in the Sierra with quick and easy access to many streams and rivers and lakes (eg Stanislaus, Mokelumne). I’ve been clomping around in my felt-soled boots and realize that waders are on the horizon. I’ve seen loose-fitting waders and tight ones (neoprene?).  The pros in the magazines seem to wear the loose ones. I’m open to suggestions. Regards, Dick Weinkle PS:  Do you lose more flies in the trees (like I do) than in the water? — I am who I’ve learned to be.  I am who I am.  I am Nothing.

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I’ve been fly-fishing for 2 months now.  I’m blessed by living in the Sierra with quick and easy access to many streams and rivers and lakes (eg Stanislaus, Mokelumne). I’ve been clomping around in my felt-soled boots and realize that waders are on the horizon. I’ve seen loose-fitting waders and tight ones (neoprene?).  The pros in the magazines seem to wear the loose ones. I’m open to suggestions.

I like the Orvis Clearwater breathables, most comfortable I have ever worn fishing. Great for the hiking or ‘clambering’ you might have to do en route as well. — Charlie…

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Not to mention the 4 year guarantee. Chris Brown – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve been fly-fishing for 2 months now.  I’m blessed by living in the Sierra with quick and easy access to many streams and rivers and lakes (eg Stanislaus, Mokelumne). I’ve been clomping around in my felt-soled boots and realize that waders are on the horizon. I’ve seen loose-fitting waders and tight ones (neoprene?).  The pros in the magazines seem to wear the loose ones. I’m open to suggestions. I like the Orvis Clearwater breathables, most comfortable I have ever worn fishing. Great for the hiking or ‘clambering’ you might have to do en route as well. — Charlie…

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Dick, I fish the same rivers you do and all I ever use is a pair of light weight stocking foot hippers with wading shoes.  When hiking,  fold them up and put them in your fishing vest. — Ernie Harrison Remove NOSPAM to send E-Mail Selling my Fly Fishing Books Go to: http://users.ccnet.com/~emh – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve been fly-fishing for 2 months now.  I’m blessed by living in the Sierra with quick and easy access to many streams and rivers and lakes (eg Stanislaus, Mokelumne). I’ve been clomping around in my felt-soled boots and realize that waders are on the horizon. I’ve seen loose-fitting waders and tight ones (neoprene?).  The pros in the magazines seem to wear the loose ones. I’m open to suggestions. Regards, Dick Weinkle PS:  Do you lose more flies in the trees (like I do) than in the water? — I am who I’ve learned to be.  I am who I am.  I am Nothing.

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Question:

Happy New Year to all my fellow Fisher-people. This light spinning tackle inshore salt water fisherman is ready to learn how to fish with a fly rod. I am looking for a 9ft 8wt fly rod that will be my learning rod. My question then is… How good are Cabela’s saltwater Fly rod blanks? How Bout the SL or FT blanks? How would these compare to the GLoomis GL3 blanks? Or is there a better route to take, maybe a fly rod combo set-up for saltwater. What do I need to look for when picking out a fly reel? Is there one type/model/construction/drag that would be advantageous over another? Thanks, Jay

Jay I can’t talk about Cabela’s, I don’t use their stuff, but I have used a Loomis GL3 8/9 weight 9 foot megataper saltwater rod for the past two years.  Unlike other salties, it has a soft tip that makes it useful for salmon, steelhead, bass, pike etc. (my type of fishing.) The usual salty is a broomstick, designed to put a lot of leverage on a fish.  Generally, they are brute force canons capable of great distances but pathetic to cast with any finesse.  They don’t really begin to load until you’ve got 30-40 foot of line beyond the tiptop. The GL3 8/9 is an exception, capable of delicate short casts, yet can match distance with any of them. Good diameter butt section for strength.  Very light, which is very important at the end of a long day.  At 3.85 ounces, there are 6 and 7 weights that weigh more. I was recently fishing for steelhead with another fishermen who was using an Orvis Trident salty.  He fishes salt frequently, and he made the same comments to me, as we compared rods.  I found his rod difficult to cast well, probably would be very difficult for a beginner.  On the other hand, my GL3 8/9 feels like a nice trout 6 weight, very easy to cast. A good reel match for the GL3 8/9 is the Lamson 3.5.  Tough reel, good drag, balances out the GL3 8/9 beautifully, tons of room for backing. Peter

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Happy New Year to all my fellow Fisher-people. This light spinning tackle inshore salt water fisherman is ready to learn how to fish with a fly rod. I am looking for a 9ft 8wt fly rod that will be my learning rod. My question then is… How good are Cabela’s saltwater Fly rod blanks? How Bout the SL or FT blanks? How would these compare to the GLoomis GL3 blanks? Or is there a better route to take, maybe a fly rod combo set-up for saltwater. What do I need to look for when picking out a fly reel? Is there one type/model/construction/drag that would be advantageous over another? Thanks, Jay

I know I’ll eat some flames for this but I would recommend getting one of the Orvis Clearwater combos.  I think the 8wt goes for about $180.00 and it is ready to fish.  I own one and it casts nice, and can double as a steelhead/salmon rod when you are in the mood. -John —        My Policy is to ALWAYS Blame the Computer

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Anything Cabela’s sells is usually very good and they give you a 100% satisfaction guaranty.   Joel Axelrad

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Happy New Year to all my fellow Fisher-people.  This light spinning tackle inshore salt water fisherman is ready to learn how to fish with a fly rod. I am looking for a 9ft 8wt fly rod that will be my learning rod. My question then is… How good are Cabela’s saltwater Fly rod blanks? How Bout the SL or FT blanks? How would these compare to the GLoomis GL3 blanks? Or is there a better route to take, maybe a fly rod combo set-up for saltwater. What do I need to look for when picking out a fly reel? Is there one type/model/construction/drag that would be advantageous over another? Thanks, Jay

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Question:

I have a friend going to Yellowstone in the end of August.  I would appreciate any recent information on the road construction in the area, its effects, where the construction is, etc.                 Thanks and tight lines!

Hi I came through fished Yellowstone two weeks ago and the construction was between Madison Junction and Old Faithful. It did restrict access to the Firehole but the section of road nearest Old Faithful was complete and access there was ok. Also the Yellowstone season opened and it is available. Don’t pass up the Gibbon river both above and below the falls. — Tight Lines ….. Al Beatty BT’s Fly Fishing Products Catalog,Tips & Tricks, Fishing Reports, & NeverSink at: http://www.btsflyfishing.com

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I have a friend going to Yellowstone in the end of August.  I would appreciate any recent information on the road construction in the area, its effects, where the construction is, etc.                                     Thanks and tight lines!

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I have a friend going to Yellowstone in the end of August.  I would appreciate any recent information on the road construction in the area, its effects, where the construction is, etc.                 Thanks and tight lines!

Try this site; it’s got current road conditions, closures etc. http://www.nps.gov/yell/

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I have a friend going to Yellowstone in the end of August.  I would appreciate any recent information on the road construction in the area, its effects, where the construction is, etc.                 Thanks and tight lines!

The park service has a page at http://www.nps.gov/yell/roadinfo.htm that gives road information.

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Question:

Does anyone know  source for a White Snow Shoe Hares Foot? Thanks, Vic

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Vic,How many do you need? James Ehlers Uncle Jammer’s Guide Service Underhill, VT

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Does anyone know  source for a White Snow Shoe Hares Foot? Thanks, Vic

I got mine from Hunters Angling Supplies in New Boston (NH). Look for their number in any ff journal or mail back and I will try to find it Thomas (not affiliated with Hunters…) — Thomas Urbig

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Vic, Mike Houge has some listed on his Web Site http://www.commonlink.com/~Midwestflytying/ I met him at a recent Fly Show and he was very helpful with good prices. Rick — Richard Padgett – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Does anyone know  source for a White Snow Shoe Hares Foot? Thanks, Vic

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Does anyone know  source for a White Snow Shoe Hares Foot?

A most reliable source, Vic, would be a wilderness area where you could catch a White Snow Shoe Hare and chop its f*cking feet off. Spinolio

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I’m looking for a white snow shoe hares foor to use as wing material for the comparadun.  Does anyone know of a source for one or two of those. Thanks, Vic

I think Feathecraft Fly Fishing in St. Louis has them in their catalog. 800-659-1707 Steve Rosenblum

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I’m looking for a white snow shoe hares foor to use as wing material for the comparadun.  Does anyone know of a source for one or two of those. Thanks, Vic

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Question:

Collins) writes:

There’s all kinds of ‘em with trolling motors attached… I suggest you get yourself a Buddy II depthfinder and go kick some bass. Tom King KOTH Fly Fishing

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Anyone out there do any kick-boating?  I just purchased a J&W Outfitters Kingfisher III with all accessories, and am eager to try it out.  Just wondering if anyone has any comments or tips? Anyone been successful in hooking up a trolling motor to this puppy? I know one will be available next year from J&W.

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